Alternation of generations in plants involves both mitosis and meiosis. In this life cycle, there are two distinct phases: the diploid sporophyte phase and the haploid gametophyte phase.
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Mitosis occurs in both phases:
- In the sporophyte generation, the plant undergoes mitosis to produce more diploid cells, allowing it to grow and develop.
- In the gametophyte generation, the haploid gametophyte also undergoes mitosis to produce gametes (sperm and eggs).
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Meiosis occurs in the sporophyte generation:
- The sporophyte produces haploid spores through meiosis. These spores then develop into the gametophyte generation.
Therefore, alternation of generations involves both processes: meiosis for producing spores in the sporophyte stage, and mitosis for growth and gamete production in both the sporophyte and gametophyte stages.